Community Resolution for Truro, MA

Whereas, in Benjamin Franklin's words, "Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty or Safety"; and

Whereas, in the pursuit of safety, the USA Patriot Act (H.R. 3162) was enacted by Congress on October 24, 2001, "To deter and punish terrorist acts in the United States and around the world, to enhance law enforcement investigatory tools, and for other purposes"; and

Whereas, this Act contains many Sections and Titles that describe and enact new and appropriate authorities, responsibilities, and procedures which deserve the support of all law-abiding citizens of the United States; and

Whereas, this Act nevertheless also contains Sections and Titles that significantly undermine and endanger the rights and liberties of U. S. citizens, as guaranteed in the Constitution and the Bill of Rights; and

Whereas, many of our countrymen, including citizens of the Town of Truro Massachusetts, have served, been wounded, or have died in several wars to protect these rights and liberties for Americans;

Therefore, the Truro Board of Selectmen hereby resolves to request that the President of the United States, the Attorney General of the United States, the US Senators from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the US Representative for the 10th Congressional District modify the USA Patriot Act in a manner that will maintain those aspects necessary for its stated purpose while rescinding those aspects deemed to infringe upon the rights and liberties of United States citizens. Such modification of the Act may result from the consideration of pending Bills before the Congress intended for the above stated purpose, e.g., H.R. 3171, or by drafting new Bills equally or better suited to this goal.